If you’re like me, it can be really hard to stick to a sensible low calorie diet during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Simply sampling every dish on the table can put you over your normal calorie intake if you have a lot of different appetizers and side dishes. Add in all of the other bad eating habits we develop around Thanksgiving and you will find your weight shooting up right when you want to look your best for the round of upcoming parties and open houses. Here are some tips that may help you stick to a low calorie Thanksgiving diet and avoid those extra pounds this holiday season:

Tip #1: Look for low calorie substitutes when you cook your favorite dishes. For example, substitute Campbell’s Healthy Request Mushroom Soup for regular mushroom soup in the traditional green bean casserole recipe. If you normally drink whole or 2% milk, buy a gallon of 1% or skim milk for cooking.
Tip #2: If you are making the meal this year, don’t sample your cooking. Instead, grab the nearest active teen to do your taste testing.

Tip #3: Don’t leave food on the counter. You’ll end up grazing and nibbling all day without even realizing how many extra calories you’ve consumed. Instead, place dishes that guests brought or that you’ve already cooked in the fridge or in your dining area. If you must keep them on the counters, place them in lidded containers so they aren’t so easy to access without realizing what you are doing. If you do have the urge to nibble, drink a glass of water or a piece of fruit instead of all of those high calorie treats.  Another great idea is to cut an assortment of veggie sticks and keep them close at hand.

Tip #4: Stop after the first plate of food. Don’t go back for seconds, no matter how good that sweet potato casserole was. Eat your dinner slowly and enjoy every bite so you aren’t tempted to refill your plate it you finish before everyone else.

Tip #5: Drink water. If you drink a glass of water at least 30 minutes prior to your meal, you won’t be as hungry as you normally would be.

Tip #6: Use a smaller plate. You are probably going to fill up your plate, no matter what size it is. Instead of using the big plates, grab a smaller plate to eat off of. You won’t be able to fit as much on it. Less food on your plate means less calories you’re taking in!